BOULDER, Colo. -- More than 11,000 homes were evacuated as the fire intensified.

Many evacuees stayed with friends and relatives overnight, but some gathered at Niwot High School and Centennial Middle School in Boulder where the Red Cross was offering free blankets and meals.

They came to watch for news updates and swap stories.

"I haven't been home since this morning," said Pam Leonhardt, who came to Niwot High with her husband, granddaughter and two golden labs.

"Were all here," she said. "My family's here. Were all ok and that's what's important."

Binesh Prasad's family also wound up at Niwot Wednesday night, although they planned to stay with friends. Prasad said flames consumed a home just three quarters of a mile from his and he worried that his family's home could be next.

"We know the way the wind is blowing it is a possibility it will come all the way to our house," he admitted.

It was a concern echoed by many evacuees who gathered at Niwot High. As they ate donated dinners, evacuated families worried abou the wind.

"Everything could just be completely different when we go back and to think that it could just be the wind that could change it, its just completely unsettling," said Susan Harvey, who managed to get her three dogs evacuated safely, but worried about her pet parakeet, which had to stay home.

Authorities said all everyone could do was wait for word. The Red Cross rolled out at least 50 beds and 200 blankets and offered free food for both people and pets.

Volunteers say the aide won't stop until the fire does. "Tell me when the wind is gonna stop blowing," said Red Cross worker David Turner. "It depends on the weather and the success of the firefighters. But as long as its an issue out in the neighborhoods, we're gonna be here ready to help people."